About MAC > Programs & Projects > Creative Aging Initiative

In its role as arts facilitator, MAC proudly sponsored the first part of the Creative Aging Initiative program, a sneak preview on April 11, 2007, of Do Not Go Gently,  a film documenting the power of the imagination in the elderly narrated by 90-year-old Walter Cronkite. This special advanced screening, courtesy of American Public Television, took place at the Montclair Art Museum and preceded the film's premiere on national television. Do Not Go Gently focused on three extraordinary elder artists: Arlonzia Pettway, 82, the oldest quilter in Gee's Bend, Alabama; Fredric Franklin, 90, the legendary English ballet dancer, choreographer, director and teacher; and Leo Ornstein, 109, pianist, composer and teacher, known as "the godfather of modern music."

The film also presented the groundbreaking work of Dr. Gene Cohen, who studies the aging brain and the role creativity plays in improving long-term health and well being in the senior population. Two important themes emerged from the film: the need for new approaches to life and communication in a world where the aging population is growing rapidly, and the triumph of the imagination and spirit over the aging body. These themes sparked a post-screening panel discussion/community meeting with Susan Perlstein, Executive Director of the National Center for Creative Aging, as well as the film's Director/Producer, Melissa Godoy, and Executive Producer, Eileen Littig. Following the discussion the audience was invited to tour the Montclair Art Museum and to visit its featured exhibition, Recent Work, by 95-year-old artist, Will Barnet.

The second part of the Creative Aging Initiative program, Passports to Remembrance: These Are a Few of Our Favorite Things (April-December 2007), utilizes photography and storytelling to document the lives of senior citizens. 40 seniors will be photographed with a piece of memorabilia of special significance to them. A senior photographer and a senior interviewer will record each participant's remembrance. The photographs and stories will be exhibited at the Montclair Public Library late in 2007, as well as in a CD catalogue. Each participant will receive a framed 8x10 photograph and a copy of his or her story. The project will provide the public with insights into the personal histories and experiences of this generation.

Senior citizens interested in participating must meet the criteria outlined below and submit an application to the Montclair Arts Council. The project committee will review all applications and select finalists who reflect the diversity of our senior community. From the finalist pool, 40 participants will be chosen. All eligible seniors are encouraged to apply.

Applicants must be: age 62 or older; Montclair residents or participants in a Montclair-based senior program; in possession of a "favorite thing," a treasured object from childhood, school, work, family, a friendship, special event, etc., and willing to share a story that enhances the value of the remembrance; willing to be photographed and interviewed; willing to have photograph and story shared with the public in exhibition, catalogue, and literature or conference reports on the project; willing to share identifying information for project products including name and age.

Applications are available on the MAC website (click here to download), from the MAC office (973-744-7555), the Division of Social Services Department of Health and Human Services (973-509-4904), The Montclair Public Library and local senior residences. Submit the application to the MAC office by fax (973-746-2461) or by mail: 205 Claremont Ave., Montclair, NJ 07042.